Rusted "smile" repair

[nixter]

Hi guys,

The "smile" or rubber strip with the metal center that lies on top of the front bumper has begun to rust and therfore dips down near the middle.

What's involved in replacing the part? How much dissasembly of the front end is required?

Also, if I want to order from PP, where would I start to look? What's the part called?

Thanks guys,

Nikolai

[DarrylD]

Hey Nikolai!

Here's the page in the Pelican on-line catalog:

http://www.pelicanparts.com/catalog/SuperCat/911M/POR_911M_BDYBMP_pg1.htm

It's item #1 - Front Bumper Covering Strip

This is the rubber strip that runs the width of the car right in front of the hood. Sometimes referred to as the bumper "smile."

Front Bumper Covering Strip, 911 (1974-1989) C-505-187-01 $128.65

You'll need to remove the front bumper, especially if any of the "smile's" 12 retaining screws are rusted so you can't get a Phillips head screwdriver on them.

Removing the bumper starts with removing the screws on each end of the rubber strip across the front and pulling it off. You must remove the turnsignals and side marker lights, and the bellows at the ends. 4 bolts hold the bumper to the brackets, the last step.

Here's a good picture to refer to:

http://www.pelicanparts.com/911/911_Parts/1974-75/8-4.JPG

The "smile" itself is held on with sheetmetal screws under the headlights and across the front from the inside of the trunk.

I found getting the turnsignals and side marker lights out the hardest part of the deal.

[nixter]

Hey Darryl, thanks for the great help!



Nikolai

[timz]

Nixter,

shoot me your email and I can send you the article on "smile" replacement

[LanceS4803]

I received a copy of this article. Excellent (with pictures)!

[timz]

Nikolai,

email sent

Cheers!